Should You Drink Salt Water in the Morning?

by
NINA K. Last Updated: Jan 27, 2014

Nina K.

Nina K. is a Los Angeles-based journalist who has been published by USAToday.com, Fitday.com, Healthy Living Magazine, Organic Authority and numerous other print and web publications. She has a philosophy degree from the University of Colorado and a journalism certificate from UCLA.

Most Americans need to decrease salt in their diet to avoid the potential side effects of excess sodium, so drinking salt water in the morning -- or at any other time -- is generally not recommended. Although your body needs sodium for vital functions such as muscle and nerve activity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure, potentially contributing to cardiovascular disease.

Salt Consumption

The average American does not need to drink salt water to consume adequate sodium; on the contrary, the typical diet already contains more than 3,400 milligrams of sodium while the recommended daily limit is just 2,300 milligrams. Sometimes, endurance athletes who sweat excessively may need sodium replenishment from beverages such as sports drinks. In these cases, Colorado State University Extension suggests that you make a beverage with about one-third of a teaspoon of salt per quart of water, along with 6 tablespoons of sugar. However, check with a medical professional before you concoct your own salty beverage.

Related Searches

Lose Weight. Feel Great
Change your life with MyPlate by LIVESTRONG.COM